Jeep Question Re-cap?

Question

IT'S NOT THE BREAKS I JUST CHANGED THEM MYSELF. First; I have a 1988 Jeep Grand Wagoneer - my baby!When I hit the breaks, I am hearing a small ping-like noise from the back cargo area. It sounds almost like a spring sound. Does anyone know what this could be and if not does anyone know of any really good online Jeep Grand Wagoneer forums or troubleshooting websites?

Answer 1

OK jessie I read your other post and their responses. Since you said you changed your brakes yourself I'm going to assume that you're mechanically capable.

Let's do some analysis. When you hit the brakes what happens? Other than you stop, all the forces of the rotating wheels is transfered to the brake shoes, then to the axle, then to the suspension, then to the frame.

Let's start at the begining. Take off the wheels and put the truck on stands. Have a helper step on the brakes while you put a prybar between the wheel studs. Try to rotate the axle. If you're lucky you'll hear your noise and you'll be able to find it quick. Otherwise the axle shouldn't move, AT ALL. If it does check the brake mounting plate to see if it's still solidly attached to the axle.

Nothing? Lets move on. Check the U-bolts on the spring perches for broken bolts or loosness. Then move to the end of the leaf springs and check out the bushings. Then check the springs themselves for any broken leaves. Then check the shock mounts for cracks. Then check the shocks them selves and their bushings. Finally check out the track bar attachment and its bushings. If anything is suspect replace it.

Nothing. Move to the frame. Rent/borrow/use a pressure washer and blast the frame from every angle possible from the back bumper to the transmission mounts. Then get under the truck after it has dried with the strongest light you can find and look for cracks. Start near all suspension attach points then look over the whole thing. If it is cracked take it to a professional welder to fix it (unless you REALLY know what you're doing). No matter what spray the frame with some kind of rust preventative afterwards.

Good luck